Boat JournalBoat Journal

Destinations & Trips

Boating

Where to go and how to make the most of it — lake towns, paddling routes, high-country water, and the trips worth planning a season around.

3 articles

The 12 Best Lake Towns for a Summer Weekend on the Water

From the Ozarks to the Finger Lakes, these are the small towns built for people who'd rather be out on the water than anywhere else. Ranked by access, amenities, and overall vibe.

8 min readJun 4, 2026

Paddling the Gulf Islands: A 5-Day Kayak Route Worth the Drive

Clear water, no crowds before 9am, and campsites you can only reach by water. This coastal Florida route is one of the best kept secrets in recreational paddling.

11 min readMay 28, 2026
Destinations

Best Mountain Lakes for Boating in the Western US — 2026 Guide

Altitude, clarity, and no jet ski crowds. These high-country lakes offer some of the most scenic boating in the country — if you know where to put in.

7 min readMay 18, 2026